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Looking for some over-the-top sips at Disney’s over-the-top themed All Star Resorts? Behind the Scenes Shake Then join us on a little crawl around All Star Movies, Music, and Sports! All Star Movies Resort All Star Movies Resort All Star Movies Resort What’s Shakin’? In case you haven’t noticed — milkshakes are completely and totally having a moment. Supernova Shakes at Planet Hollywood Granted, milkshakes originally became popular decades and decades ago, but crazy gourmet shakes are popping up everywhere from Planet Hollywood in Disney World to The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen in Universal Orlando, and far beyond. Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake at the Toothsome Emporium Even boozy versions have been showing up in Disney World for a while now, at spots like Beaches and Cream and even Animal Kingdom’s Trilo-Bites. We started noticing the arrival of new Milkshakes at All Star Resorts a few months ago, but this latest incarnation is bigger than ever. World Premiere Food Court For instance, World Premiere Food Court at All Star Movies is currently laying down the red carpet for the Green Room Shake (with Kahlua and mint chocolate chip ice cream), and the Spotlight Shake (RumChata with vanilla ice cream and cinnamon). Milkshake Menu at World Premiere Food Court Non-alcoholic Shakes are also available, with the Cliffhanger and the Behind the Scenes Shake. Milkshake and Cocktail Menu at World Premiere Food Court The Behind the Scenes Shake is made of Birthday Cake ice cream (YUM!!), and topped with whipped cream, a vanilla cupcake, and sprinkles. Behind the Scenes Shake This birthday-celebration-in-a-cup blends half of that vanilla cupcake into the ice cream, and places half on top for a before or after milkshake bonus snack . Behind the Scenes Shake Toppings Cupcake blended into Behind the Scenes Shake The Cliffhanger, on the other hand, is the chocoholic option, and features — according to the description — a chocolate cake slice. Chocolate Cake at World Premiere Food Court However, here the entire slice is blended into the shake, so you’re getting bits of cake interspersed throughout. Either way, you can have your cake and drink it, too! Let’s head to All Star Music’s Intermission Food Court next. Intermission Food Court sign This is where we’ll find the Jam Session (strawberry with Frangelico) and the Backstage Pass. Intermission Food Court Milkshake Menu The Backstage Pass mimics the Smokey Bones Chocolate Shake at Animal Kingdom’s Trilo-Bites, as both feature bourbon in the mix (it’s Knob Creek at Intermission) and are topped with candied bacon. Smokey Bones Chocolate Shake Non-boozies include the Peanut Butter & Jelly Milkshake (fans of 50s Prime Time Cafe and The Fountain will recognize this one!) and the Chocolate Cake Shake (though note that the similar Cliffhanger next door is a buck less). Intermission Food Court Milkshake Menu Peanut Butter and Jelly Milkshake with Viewfinder Dessert Menu at 50s Prime Time Cafe By the way, even though Intermission Food Court now looks like this… Intermission Food Court at All-Star Music … can you remember when it looked like THIS? Guitar Guy at former Intermission Food Court Oh, man… I just can’t pass up an opportunity to use that picture. I mean, no doubt about it — the renovated Intermission is WAY better. But I sorta miss that guy. Okay, moving on! You didn’t think we’d forget All Star Sports, did you? Let’s head there next… What’s Sippin’? We’re here to check out the new Frozen Drinks menu at Grandstand Spirits in All Star Sports! Grandstand Spirits Frozen adult specialties include The Avalanche, with Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Amaretto, strawberry and mango purees, and a float of Myer’s Dark Rum. The Cross Country Colada is Bacardi Superior Rum blended in with Pina Colada mix, while The Halfpipe is Spiced Rum blended with “Pineapple Smoothie” (more on that shortly). Grandstand Spirits Frozen Specialties Menu Margaritas include the Black Diamond (lime) and the Red Diamond (strawberry). And you’ll see that there is a non-alcoholic pina colada and pineapple soft-serve up for grabs. Back to that Pineapple Smoothie… if you take a look at the additional posted sign, you’ll see that the “Pineapple Smoothie” in question is described with a wink to a “traditional non-alcoholic pineapple favorite.” Additional Frozen Specials Sign So! A/K/A the aforementioned pineapple soft-serve… A/K/A DOLE WHIP!! Remember when we saw this one at Art of Animation’s Drop Off Pool Bar under the moniker Captain’s Pineapple earlier this year? Captain’s Pineapple So, you can enjoy it on its own, as The Halfpipe, OR just mixed with your own preferred spirit! Turning back towards All Star Music, Singing Spirits is offering a similar listing of cocktails. Singing Spirits Bar This time, though, the names are themed to — what else? — music! The Calypso, The Steel Drum, and the Celebrity Margarita are dupe drinks from the Grandstand, while the Intermission Break Lemonade (with Grey Goose and Cherry Noir Vodka) is exclusive to Singing Spirits. Singing Spirits Frozen Specialties Menu There are a few additional non-alcoholic options here as well, with the popular Lava Smoothie along with a coconut and strawberry version. And now we’re back to where we started: All Star Movies! Silver Screen Spirits The drinks at Silver Screen Spirits will now look familiar to you, with the Celebrity Margarita, the Red Carpet Margarita, The Trooper, and The Sparrow all simply name variations on the drinks we’ve spotted already. Silver Screen Spirits Frozen Specialties Menu The Citrus Freeze, though, is unique to Silver Screen, featuring Florida Cane Orange Vodka and Peach Schnapps with orange puree (and, frankly, sounds reeeeaaaallly good right about now). So, should you be lucky enough to find yourself at the All Stars this summer, you can see that there’s definitely more than one way you’ll be able to beat the heat! And while you’re there, please tell this little guy… Donald Duck! … that we said “Hello!” Which specialty drink or shake would you choose at the All Stars? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All Star Music Resort to Close for Renovations Starting August 1 Tour: Temporary Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Closed For Renovations View the full article

Just in time for summer, we debuted “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And now, you have the opportunity to join us and be one of 100 winners to experience this limited time concert event on June 29, 2017. You can enter today from 11:00 a.m. ET until 3:00 p.m. ET for a chance to win two (2) tickets to Disney’s Hollywood Studios where you can experience “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters.” The event begins at 8:15 p.m. ET (check-in begins at 4 p.m.) on June 29 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Winners will have a confirmed place at this event. During the event, winners and their guests will see “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters” featuring memorable music from Pixar Animation Studios films, complete with a live orchestra and appearances by beloved Disney•Pixar characters. Guests at the show can also expect appearances by Woody, Jessie, Mike and Sulley, the Incredibles and more. You can enter for a chance to win by clicking here and following the entry instructions to complete an official entry form. Your entry must state your valid email address and full name. Also, here are a few things you should know: All entrants must be 18 years or older and legal residents of, and physically located within, the state of Florida. However, guests of the winners do not need to be 18 or older (as long as the guest is the child or ward of the winner). Limit one guest per winner. Winners will be sent a notice, via email. It will be necessary for each winner and guest to check in at Will Call at Disney’s Hollywood Studios beginning at 4 p.m. on the day of the event. Valid photo I.D. will be required at check-in. Winning prizes are non-transferrable and have no cash value. Show performance is subject to restrictions, change or cancellation without notice. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Starts 11:00 a.m. ET on 6/23/17, and ends 3:00 p.m. ET of same day. Open only to legal residents of Florida who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Limit 1 entry per person. For full details including eligibility requirements, odds of winning and prize limitations, see Official Rules. Prize does not include accommodations or transportation between winner’s home and the event taking place on June 29, 2017. Void where prohibited. View the full article

A Huntington Beach man “marked a milestone of superhero proportions” on Thursday when he visited Disneyland for the 2,000th consecutive day, the resort announced. Jeff Reitz, an Air Force veteran, began his daily visits to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim on Jan. 1, 2012, according to a Disney... View the full article

May the Force be with you, and you and you. And if “Star Wars” heroes aren't exciting enough to make your day, throw in Marvel's superheroes and supervillains, who will fight battles of epic proportions while you stand at the sidelines watching — or maybe you'll even participate. It's all part... View the full article

Summertime is Disney water park time around here. And from now until Labor Day, our expert Disney PhotoPass photographers are stationed all over Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon to capture your best “splash-tastic” memories at the Walt Disney World Resort, including some special moments at each water park. At Disney’s Blizzard Beach, PhotoPass photographers are already busy snapping away and capturing special summer visits with Kristoff and Olaf. These Arendelle visitors are at the park through August 13 for the Frozen Games. At Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, our photographers are currently capturing visits with favorite Disney characters Lilo and Stitch. They’re also now at Miss Adventure Falls, the new family-style raft attraction and the longest ride in the history of Disney water parks. As regular blog readers know, one of the biggest advantages of using Disney PhotoPass Service is convenience, especially at the water parks. Our photographers allow you to leave your camera behind and still capture memories. You can also add Memory Maker to your vacation for unlimited digital downloads of your water park visits and all your Walt Disney World Resort vacation PhotoPass photos. This summer whether you choose to spend your days at the water parks relaxing, seeking out thrills, or meeting some of your favorite Disney Characters, you can enjoy the convenience of having PhotoPass photographers ready to capture your experience. View the full article

Disney Springs is definitely the place to be this summer – where you can enjoy live outdoor entertainment and a delicious meal overlooking the springs while you pick up your summer essentials. Here are a few summer favorites to check out: To help celebrate their 20th anniversary, Basin in the Marketplace is offering a new bath bomb each month. Be sure to check out the June scent (Coconut Lemongrass) when you pick up the latest exclusive summer soaps like the watermelon or red, white, and blue Mickey soaps, pictured above. At Disney Springs, the summer wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t stop by havaianas to try on a pair of Disney-inspired flip-flops, or better yet create your own unique pair. Mix & match your flip-flop sole and strap style, with a variety of colors exclusively at the flip-flop customization station. There are more than 120 different pins styles to accessorize this summer-time staple. If you need to expand your summer wardrobe, pick up a swimsuit from Curl by Sammy Duvall, Shore or Volcom. All of these locations carry swimsuit styles for women, men and children at a variety of price points – perfect for spending time at the pool or beach relaxing after a day of shopping at Disney Springs. At Johnston & Murphy this summer, you’ll find a buy one-get one special on men’s shorts now through July 17, 2017. And if you’re looking for that perfect pair of shoes for your next boating adventure, you can receive up to 50% off select styles at Sperry during their semi-annual sale, running now through July 12, 2017. You can also grab a new set of luggage or a travel bag at TUMI now through July 5, 2017 and save up to 25% off select styles during their semi-annual sale. And ZARA is also running their annual summer sale now through the end of August. And last but not least, the ultimate summer campfire treat is waiting for you at The Ganachery! The chocolatiers at Disney Springs have crafted up something very special – made in-house and to order. Enjoy custom 65% chocolate, a toasted vanilla bean marshmallow, and salted caramel ganache squeezed between two freshly baked graham cracker cookies. Pick up any new summer favorites while visiting Disney Springs? Share on Twitter on Instagram using hashtag #DisneySprings – we’d love to see your Summer must-haves. View the full article

Not sure if it’s call of the whistle or the relaxing rhythms of a train as it chugs down the tracks, but I love trains. Trains are soothing and remind me of simpler times. They are also a great way to explore. The Walt Disney World Railroad takes guests on a ride back in time. We captured video of some little ones carrying on Walt Disney’s longtime fascination with trains. Their reactions are priceless as they journey on the steam-powered locomotive as it winds a mile and a half through the Magic Kingdom. It’s a must-do for families with preschoolers and kids of all ages. Take a look. Chugga Lugga Choo Choo! View the full article

Today, we’ve got a treat for y’all, and it won’t add a single calorie to your diet. We just think it’s super cool. But in order to get into it, we’ve gotta get into Pop Century Resort. Pop! Okay, so you know we’re alllll about the food here at DFB, but sometimes, Disney does something that’s weird and fun and random…and we just want to tell you about it! That’s what happened when we stumbled upon the Pop Century Shop Stop kiosk. Pop Century Entrance You know Pop Century as the value resort of over-the-top PlayDoh jars and Big Wheels, plus, you know, some trend-worthy grub. Like the King Whoopie Pie. King Whoopie Pie Occasionally we stop eating sweets long enough to dig into savory eats, like a classic-ish Sloppy Joe. Because look at the size of those onion rings! Sloppy Joe and Fries But Pop Century seems an appropriate place for a potential new trend, right? Enter: an ATM. Say what? You know Disney can do an ATM. C’mon: Sprinkles dispenses cupcakes at Disney Springs via these magical machines, so why not other awesome stuff? We give you exhibit A: the Everything Pop Shop Stop! Pop Century Shop Stop That’s right, friends. It’s an ATM that dispenses cool stuff like autograph books, pins, Magic Bandits, and D-TECH gear! Step right up, and select a category! Pop Century Shop Stop Goods To get a sneak peak of the goods inside, check out the display box on the top of the machine. There’s one autograph book option, featuring the Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, and the ‘Munks! Plus there’s a pack of assorted MagicBandits (those fun bits that you can use to customize your MagicBand!). Goods from the Shop Stop You can also find pins — including a mystery pin pack! — and D-TECH gear — including Earbuds and SD-cards. Pop Century Shop Stop Gear We aren’t sure if these 24-hour ATMs are popping up in any other resorts, but they’re super convenient. As of this visit, the Shop Stop only took cards and didn’t accept any discounts (AP, etc.). Of course, all of these items are also available in the Everything Pop gift shop during shop hours, but this is a fun option no matter what time of day you need it! If you could stock your own Disney ATM, what goodies would you put in it? Play along with us in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Pool Bar Series: Petals at POP Century Resort Resort Specialty: Mom’s Night Out at Pop Century Review: Pop-Tarts® Breakfast Sandwich at Pop Century Resort View the full article

Tonight’s Disney Parks After Dark images come to us all the way from Pandora – The World of Avatar. The dramatic daytime beauty of the land transforms to glow by night when Pandora’s bioluminescent flora comes to life. In this shot, one of the floating mountains’ beautiful waterfalls cascades with color in the evening time. Have you visited Pandora – The World of Avatar? Tell us what you loved most about the land in the “Comments” section below. View the full article

Unleash your inner Super Hero and come face-to-face with more of your favorite Marvel characters during Marvel Super Hero Summer, now open at Hong Kong Disneyland! New recruits can grab S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Credentials and a personalized ID at a designated location before going on missions. Visit Captain America–A Hero’s Welcome, where Captain America will personally welcome new recruits to the team, and meet the legendary web-slinger at the Spider-Man Heroic Encounter. Of course, guests visiting Stark Expo can also meet with Iron Man himself. Then, walk through Mission: Dimensions of Danger and help Doctor Strange recover the powerful Portal Nexus artifact before it falls into the hands of Hydra. In order to save Hong Kong, Agents will battle alongside Black Widow and Hawkeye, join forces with the mighty Thor in Odin’s Vault, help Star-Lord in the Collector’s Museum and much more. Of course, the Expo Shop also has new themed merchandise items, including Super Hero costumes, toys and personalized products, and you’ll find new food and beverage items exclusive to the resort. Hong Kong Disneyland also teamed up with Marvel to introduce an all-new, limited-edition Marvel comic book, “Iron Man Experience: Hong Kong Heroes #1,” and printed copies are for sale during Marvel Super Hero Summer only at the resort. The Marvel team, along with a Hong Kong artist and a Hong Kong based writer, spent two months crafting the comic. Set in Hong Kong, the story debuts a new armored hero who joins Iron Man and the other Super Heroes to stop the bad guys from taking a secret treasure hidden in Hong Kong’s Stark Expo. And in just a few years, the adventure continues with our Hong Kong Disneyland expansion which includes an exciting new Super Hero-themed area and an attraction inspired by the franchise. We can’t wait for you to join in on the action, so keep an eye out for more updates on the Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

This summer, celebrate the traditional Japanese Tanabata festival with an added Disney touch at Tokyo Disney Resort! From a special “Tanabata Greeting” to exclusive merchandise and unique menu items, there’s so much limited-time magic to enjoy. Let’s take a look at all the ways you can enjoy this Japanese festival. At both parks, you’ll be able to spot some of your favorite Disney characters in a festive “Tanabata Greeting” set to a traditional melody. Mickey and Minnie make a special appearance dressed as Hikoboshi and Orihime, the two star-crossed sweethearts of this festival. At Tokyo Disneyland, you’ll also find a Wishing Place at the center of World Bazaar, featuring Tanabata decorations with brand new lighting effects. You can take part in the tradition of writing all your hopes, wishes and dreams on Wishing Cards while enjoying the beautiful twinkling atmosphere. You can grab a tasty dessert, specialty cocktail or shaved ice inspired by Hikoboshi and Orihime and choose from more than 30 different merchandise items created just for Tanabata, including plush toys, hand towels and Wishing Cards. You might even get a little surprise in the form of a special Wishing Card when you order certain menu items from restaurants and lounges at the resort’s hotels! Whether it’s food, merchandise or entertainment, what are you excited for most? Let us know in the comments below, and keep an eye out for more updates on Tokyo Disney Resort right here on the Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Seven years ago this month, we were celebrating firsts and openings and looking back at favorite moments from our past. Let’s take a look back at June 2010! Recap of Our First Meet-Up at the Disneyland Resort The very first Disney Parks Blog meet-up was held here at the Disneyland Resort on June 1, 2010. Were you there? I was! Splash Mountain Opening? Captain EO? Star Tours? What do You Remember Best at the Disneyland Resort Between 1986 and 1990? Counting down to the anniversary of Disneyland, we looked back at some of our favorite memories from 1986-1990. ‘World of Color’ Blue Carpet Premiere Live Coverage The Disney Parks Blog was posting live from the blue carpet at the “World of Color” premiere on June 10, 2010. Check out our photo coverage! Coffee With Walt George shared one of my all-time favorite photos of Walt Disney, enjoying a cup of coffee at the Plaza Inn at Disneyland park in 1966. View the full article

We know that y’all are pretty serious when it comes to Character Dining at Walt Disney World. So in today’s DFB Video, we’re taking a closer look at Walt Disney World’s newest character dining experience — the Bon Voyage Breakfast at Trattoria al Forno. Rapunzel Trattoria al Forno has served breakfast since it opened on the BoardWalk in 2014. But earlier this year, the restaurant became home to Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Ariel, and Prince Eric as they send guests off on a grand adventure of their own. The table service, prix fixe meal allows guests to choose from several menu options. And oh, by the way — you can also choose to dine on the patio, character free, if you’d prefer. Want to see just what you can expect from the Bon Voyage Breakfast? Then check out our DFB Video! Don’t forget — there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel. If you’re loving what we’re doing with our new DFB Video Series, be sure to subscribe to our DFB YouTube Channel. Just click on the button below, subscribe, and you’ll always be in the know! Have you had a chance to experience the Bon Voyage Breakfast with Rapunzel and Friends? Let us know if this character breakfast is on your Disney Bucket List! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: New Rapunzel Bon Voyage Character Breakfast in Disney World News: Rapunzel Character Breakfast Coming to Trattoria al Forno in Disney World New DFB Video: Best and Worst Character Meals in Walt Disney World View the full article

Walt Disney Co. is near the top of the list of most-admired employers, mingling with high-tech entities Google, Apple, Microsoft and Amazon, a new survey concludes. Disney trails only Google on the list, take from a survey of 220,000 adults compiled by Morning Consult, a polling, research and media... View the full article

Oscar-winning filmmaker Ron Howard will take over as director of the "Star Wars" Han Solo spinoff, Lucasfilm announced. His hire comes after the movie's original directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller were fired Tuesday, while in the middle of production after clashing with producer and Lucasfilm... View the full article

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival has 32 musical acts lined up from Aug. 31 to Nov. 13 as part of the Eat to the Beat concert series. View the full article

Paige O’Hara Shares Her ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Memories | Walt Disney World View the full article

Walt Disney World is working in 11 new acts to the 2017 edition of the Eat to the Beat concert series that’s tied to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The lineup also includes repeat performers such as Boyz II Men, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Hanson and Taylor Dayne. We apologize in advance... View the full article

As if you think the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival couldn’t get any better – you were wrong! With a record number of days (75) and a record number of Global Marketplaces (35), we are also amping up the Eat to the Beat concert series with 11 new artists including Jazz Legend Kenny G, and pop superstars like 10,000 Maniacs and Squeeze. Returning favorites like Taylor Dayne, Christopher Cross, .38 Special and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy welcome the newcomers – with performances every night of the Festival. Here’s the full line-up: 8/31 – 9/1 – Delta Rae (“Bottom of the River”) 9/2 – 9/3 – The Hooters (“And We Danced”) NEW 9/4 – 9/5 – Baha Men (“Who Let the Dogs Out”) NEW 9/6 – 9/7 – Fuel (“Shimmer”) 9/8 -9/20 – STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas (“We Built This City”) 9/11 – 9/12 – Lauren Alaina (“Road Less Traveled”) NEW 9/13 – 9/15 – Plain White T’s (“Hey There Delilah”) 9/16 – 9/17 – Sister Hazel (“All For You”) 9/18 – 9/20- Air Supply (“All Out Of Love”) 9/21 – 9/22 – David Cook (“Light On”) 9/23 – 9/24 – Everclear (“Santa Monica”) 9/25 – 9/27 – Sugar Ray (“Every Morning) 9/28 – 9/29 – .38 Special (“Hold On Loosely”) 9/30 – 10/1 – Mark Wills (“19 Somethin’”) 10/2 – 10/3 – American Authors (“Best Day of My Life”) 10/4 – 10/5 – Christopher Cross (“Sailing”) 10/6 – 10/8 – Devon Allman (“Rugged ad Dirty”) NEW 10/9 – 10/11 – Dennis DeYoung: The music of STYX (“Come Sail Away”) 10/12 – 10/13 – Taylor Dayne (“Tell It To My Heart”) 10/14 – 10/15 – Jeffrey Osborne (“On The Wings of Love”) 10/16 – 10/17 – Postmodern Jukebox (Various Hits) NEW 10/18 – 10/20 – 10,000 Maniacs (“Because the Night”) NEW 10/21 – 10/22 – Toad The Wet Sprocket (“Walk on the Ocean”) 10/23 – 10/24 – Kenny G (“Songbird”) NEW 10/25 – 10/26 – Billy Ocean (“Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car”) 10/27 – 10/29 – Tiffany (“I Think We’re Alone Now”) 10/30 – 11/1 – Hanson (“MMMBop”) 11/2 – 11/3 – Blue October (“Into The Ocean”) NEW 11/4 – 11/5 – Living Colour (“Cult of Personality”) 11/6 – 11/8 – Boyz II Men (“End of the Road”) 11/9 – 11/11 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (“Go Daddy-O”) 11/12 – 11/13 – Squeeze (“Tempted”) NEW The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival opens Aug. 31 and runs through Nov. 13. Performances are 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 p.m. daily, and included in Epcot admission. (Lineup is subject to change; songs listed are for artist recognition only and may not be included in the concert play list.) Keep checking back to the Disney Parks Blog for more info and an eye out for details this summer at epcotfoodfestival.com. View the full article

A whole new land … and a new opportunity for tweens! As I’ve previously mentioned in this column I have a tween daughter. Sadly, she has yet to step into the all-new Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Having spent quite a bit of time in this new extraordinary land over the past several weeks, I am determined to create the perfect day … and night … for her to fully experience the best Pandora has to offer to kids her age. Here’s my list of the top nine things I think she and other tweens will enjoy! 1. Stroll Through the Land – My daughter may be all about her electronics and fast-moving action, but I am sure she will be wowed by the stunning beauty of Pandora. She’s seen portions of the movie AVATAR, and to see the setting of the movie come alive in such a breathtaking manner will impress her to no end. Before she ventures off to experience the attractions, I want her to take in the sheer beauty of it all. And if you or your tweens haven’t seen the movie, you’ll still love the land. 2. Ride the Na’vi River Journey – I truly believe this incredible trip through the bioluminescent forest will set the stage for her entire day. 3. Stop at the Colors of Mo’ara Face-Painting Kiosk – After spying the Na’vi in the bioluminescent forest during the Na’vi River Journey attraction, my daughter will be ready for a transformation herself! So many options to choose from, but I believe she’ll want to have her entire face painted blue to look like a Na’vi herself. 4. Nibble on a Cheeseburger Pod – Satu’li Canteen is unlike any other Walt Disney World Resort eatery and I just know she will adore the cheeseburger pods on the new menu. They’re unusual, yet familiar too. 5. Sip on a Night Blossom – Pongu Pongu specialty kiosk offers a variety of cool and refreshing drinks. The non-alcoholic Night Blossom is filled with fruity flavors — the perfect frou frou treat for my daughter. 6. Cuddle a Direhorse – One look in my daughter’s bedroom and one sees a multitude of stuffed animals. She loves to adopt creatures of all kinds. And an adorably blue Baby direhorse or hexapede to cuddle will be a perfect addition to her collection. 7. Selfies at the Overlook – Tweens love to take selfies! The overlook area of Pandora provides the perfect selfie backdrop, with its lush and colorful plants and spectacular views of the waterfall and floating mountains. 8. Soar on the Back of a Banshee – I would save the most thrilling attraction for last, as the Avatar Flight of Passage ride is truly like no other. While it’s thrilling, in every way, I’ll be eager to see if she finds it as beautiful as all the people who’ve been brought to tears by it! 9. Return to Pandora at Night – A day in Pandora will make you hungry for dinner. Just across the bridge from Pandora is Tiffins. This signature restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to Pandora to see it glow with bioluminescence. My daughter has never experienced anything as magnificent as this land at night, and I can’t wait to share it with her. View the full article

In today’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Tinker Bell’s pal, Silvermist, would do if she had the chance to visit a Disney Park. Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers guests a thrilling whitewater adventure down the Chakranadi River in the Asia section of the park. This attraction just may be up Silvermist’s ally! “Since Silvermist is a water-talent fairy, I’d imagine she’d have a lot of fun riding the Kali River Rapids ride!” Ashley said. View the full article

No Central Florida local or visitor will ever want for frozen treats because our area is well-stocked with cafes that are scooping, scraping and churning out the perfect summer indulgence. Here are just a few of my favorite spots for some melty goodness. You can find a photo gallery filled with... View the full article

No Central Florida local or visitor will ever want for frozen treats because our area is well-stocked with cafes that are scooping, scraping and churning out the perfect summer indulgence. Here are just a few of my favorite spots for some melty goodness. You can find a photo gallery filled with... View the full article

A recently approved permit signals parking changes could be part of the work being planned at Epcot. The South Florida Water Management District issued a new permit this month for canal modifications that allow Walt Disney Parks and Resorts to build and operate a new stormwater management system... View the full article

We are so excited to share BIG news with you today! We have FULL DETAILS about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, which takes place for a record 75 days this year — August 31-November 13, 2017! And today, the full Eat to the Beat Concert line-up is here!!! There are lots of exciting returning acts. We’re marking our calendar to catch 38 Special, Boyz II Men, and Big Bad VooDoo Daddy in person. But we always look forward to learning about new acts as well! This year, there are over 30 musical acts coming to Epcot!! Newcomers Baha Men (Who Let the Dogs Out), American Authors (Best Day Of My Life), 10,000 Maniacs (Because the Night), Kenny G, and more bring new life to the party! Here’s the full list. Don’t forget to check out our 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival page for all the latest details on the festival! 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Line Up! Delta Rae — August 31-September 1 NEW! The Hooters – September 2-3 NEW! Baha Men — September 4-5 Fuel — September 6-7 Starship featuring Mickey Thomas – September 8-10 NEW! Lauren Alaina – September 11-12 Plain White T’s — September 13-15 Sister Hazel – September 16-17 Air Supply — September 18-20 David Cook — September 21-22 Everclear — September 23-24 Sugar Ray — September 25-27 38 Special – September 28-29 NEW! Mark Wills — September 30-October 1 American Authors – October 2-3 Christopher Cross – October 4-5 Devon Allman – October 6-8 Dennis DeYoung: The Music of STYX — October 9-11 Taylor Dane — October 12-13 Jeffrey Osbourne – October 14-15 NEW! Postmodern Jukebox — October 16-17 NEW! 10,000 Maniacs — October 18-20 Toad the Wet Sprocket — October 21-22 NEW! Kenny G — October 23-24 Billy Ocean – October 25-26 Tiffany – October 27-October 29 Hanson — October 30-November 1 NEW! Blue October — November 2-3 Living Colour — November 4-5 Boyz II Men — November 6-8 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy — November 9-11 NEW! Squeeze — November 12-13 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Performing at Eat to the Beat Eat to the Beat concerts are free with Epcot admission throughout the festival. You can catch up to three shows per night at at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM in the America Gardens Theater, located in the America Pavilion. Check out our Eat to the Beat Concert page for details and times. Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available for pre-order! And if you pre-order the 2017 edition, you get the 2016 edition (with TONS of great info!) for FREE!!! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Order your 2017 edition today and we’ll immediately send you the 2016 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2017 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOS 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting TBD. Join the Disney Food Blog Newsletter to find out as soon as we do about details and booking dates! Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents may be eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. These members will be able to book seminars and demos TBD. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders can book select special events, demos, and seminars on TBD as well. A limited number of seats are available for the booking date. Is YOUR favorite group or singer performing during the 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Series? Let us know who you’ll be lining up to see this year! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival News! More Eat to the Beat Concert Series Acts News! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule! News! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Preliminary Bands View the full article